PH films ‘Food Delivery,’ ‘Magellan’ included in Oscars 2026 eligibility list

Two Filipino films have secured spots on the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences’ list of qualified titles for the 98th Academy Awards.

Baby Ruth Villarama’s documentary, “Food Delivery: Fresh from the Philippine Sea,” is included among the eligible documentary features, while Lav Diaz’s “Magellan” is part of the international feature film roster.

The Academy released the official list of qualified entries on Nov. 22 (Manila time), covering the categories of Animated Feature Film, Documentary Feature Film, and International Feature Film.

“Food Delivery” producer Therese Malvar welcomed the inclusion of the two Philippine titles, noting the extensive Oscar efforts behind Villarama’s documentary.

“I’m super happy that we are very much visible with the Academy!” she told Inquirer Entertainment. “Knowing the efforts of Director Baby Ruth Villarama and Sir Chuck Gutierrez with their Oscars campaign in the US, this is really worth it.”

Hoping for many voters

“I hope more people get to see the magic and beauty of our West Philippine Sea and the protectors of our waters. Being part of the list is already an honor—hoping many of the voters will vote for the film, along with “Magellan.” A great year indeed for Filipino films!”

This year, 201 titles are eligible for consideration in the Documentary Feature Film category. According to an article by Deadline, a major US-based entertainment news outlet, members of the Academy’s documentary branch will determine the shortlist of 15 titles, set for release on Dec. 16, alongside the shortlists for Live Action and Animated Shorts.

English-language scenes allowed

In the International Feature Film category, 86 countries or regions submitted qualifying titles, said the Deadline report. The category — formerly Best Foreign Language Film — accepts feature-length productions created outside the United States with over 50 percent non-English dialogue. The Academy noted that films can still qualify even if they include English-language scenes, provided they do not exceed the allowed threshold.

Academy members from all branches may opt in for the preliminary round of international feature voting, subject to minimum viewing requirements. The 15-title shortlist will also be announced on Dec. 16.

Preliminary voting for select Oscar categories runs from Dec. 8 to 12. Nominations for the 98th Academy Awards will be revealed on Jan. 22, 2026.

The 98th Oscars ceremony will take place on March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theater at Ovation Hollywood, and will air live on ABC in more than 200 territories worldwide. /ra